The UAE is gearing up to celebrate the 54th UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, marking the unification of the nation on 2 December.
This year brings an extended weekend, after the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed that Monday, 1 December, and Tuesday, 2 December, will be official paid holidays for private-sector employees. Work will resume on Wednesday, 3 December, giving residents a four-day break.
UAE National Day commemorates the historic moment in 1971 when six emirates united, followed by Ras Al Khaimah joining in 1972, forming the seven-emirate nation we know today. The union was led by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, with Abu Dhabi serving as the country’s capital.
أعلنت الهيئة الاتحادية للموارد البشرية الحكومية أن عطلة عيد الاتحاد الــ54 لدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة، لموظفي الوزارات والجهات الاتحادية ستكون يومي الاثنين والثلاثاء الموافقين 1 – 2 ديسمبر لعام 2025، على أن يستأنف الدوام الرسمي يوم الأربعاء الموافق الثالث من ديسمبر. pic.twitter.com/wvvPka626H
— FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) November 17, 2025
Across the UAE, celebrations are set to light up the long weekend with fireworks, concerts, military parades, and family-friendly activities. Hotels, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment venues will be rolling out special events and offers, making it the perfect time to explore, experience, and enjoy everything the Emirates has to offer.
Keep an eye on our website and app for the best things to do during the national holiday.
Discover: Four-day holiday confirmed for 54th Eid Al Etihad
